Nets to protect Townsville beach-goers from marine stingers
Date published: 2 November 2021
With the mercury starting to rise as we approach summer, nets are being returned to six of Townsville and Magnetic Island's most popular beaches, giving those wanting to cool off in the ocean enhanced protection from marine stingers.
Community Health, Safety and Environmental Sustainability Committee chairperson Maurie Soars said the stinger nets would help protect beach-goers from stings during the summer months.
“The temperature has really started to rise, and we know that people want to get in the water and enjoy our beaches without the worry of being stung by a jellyfish,” Cr Soars said.
“The deployment of these stinger nets ensures that residents and visitors alike can get into the water and enjoy the North Queensland lifestyle at its best.
“It’s important to remember that although effective, the nets can’t stop every sting, so I do encourage swimmers to take extra measures to protect themselves such as carrying vinegar or wearing a stinger suit.”
SLSQ Lifeguard Supervisor North Barrier Russell Blanchard said lifeguards and lifesavers would continue to perform regular stinger drags in and around patrol areas.
“As the stinger nets aren’t 100 per cent stinger proof, our drags will allow us to identify if any stingers do manage to make their way into the enclosures,” he said.
“We also urge swimmers to refrain from sitting on, playing near, or interfering with the stinger enclosures, as jellyfish can sometimes wash over the top or through the sides.
“In the event a stinger is identified, we will close the beach immediately.
“Any swimmers who are stung should immediately notify the lifeguards or lifesavers on duty.
“We encourage anyone visiting Townsville beaches this summer to go to a patrolled location and swim between the red and yellow flags.”
Council contracts Uninet to deploy the stinger nets across Townsville. The nets will be fully installed by the end of Wednesday 3 November and the locations are as follows:
- Balgal Beach
- Magnetic Island (Picnic Bay and Horseshoe Bay)
- North Strand and South Strand
- Pallarenda
For more information about stinger net locations and lifeguard patrols, visit The Strand and Beaches.
